Online-characterization of dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuators for optimized efficiency of aerodynamical flow control applications

The impact of fluctuating and transient kinematic and thermodynamic airflow conditions on the performance of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuators is demonstrated. A novel online-characterization and control approach is introduced, revealing the possibility of compensating for impaired discharge performance due to changing airflow scenarios during actuator operation. The goal of controlling the plasma actuator performance online and in situ is achieved and successfully demonstrated.